Victoria Gault

Let me tell you about a little gem of a shop I popped to at the weekend. Victoria Gault is an elegant little florist and gift shop, nestled at the end of Queens Arcade in Belfast City centre. It’s one of those shops that truly make your heart sing, as soon as you step through the door. In fact, peering through the window is enough to lift your spirits.

The shop itself is a vision of beautiful flowers, luxurious bouquets, gifts, curiosities and all manner of pretty things you feel you ought to have. The displays are so perfect; I doubt you’d find a thing out of place, or a discarded petal on the floor (but not in a ‘don’t touch me’ stuffy way, oh no, this is definitely a ‘touch and feel’ kind of shop).

The flowers are vibrant and colourful - the brightest peach peonies (my favourite), fuchsia pink gerberas, colourful roses, as well as delicate bunches of wild flowers that would look stunning in a ceramic jug.

Recently, I’ve been buying antique roses (6 is usually enough) and arranging them in a glass vase, on my beside table. I couldn’t avail of Victoria’s burnt orange ones as I was heading out for dinner that evening, but I do hope there’ll be similar roses, next time.

And where do I start, with the gifts? Every occasion is catered for - birthdays, anniversaries, congratulations, new home, new baby, get well. Of course, there are lots of flower-themed items, like jugs and vases, which are super elegant and stylish (ideal gifts for the hostess). They also stock cute little wooden signs, tiny storm holders for candles, as well as pretty bunting and candles.

In the end, I bought a simple, white glazed ceramic jug vase, which is printed with the phrase 'Enjoy the Simple Life' and features a garden themed design, with watering can and plant pots. The neutral design is perfect for displaying some long stemmed avalanche roses. My vase was neatly packaged in a brown paper bag (don’t you just love brown paper bags?) and fastened with some raffia – perfect!

And if it’s something a little different you’re after? On Valentines Day Victoria provided the flowers for one of Belfast’s most original and fun weddings where the theme was - ‘industrial, chic and anything but traditional’ – stunning.

If you'd like to read more about Brenda & Butch’s Belfast wedding day, you can do so here.

Victoria Gault has been here for some time, but it's easily missed as it’s right at the end of the arcade. Her striking creations range from simple bunches to extravagant displays. I know I’ll be back for more.

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